The twin sister of a “loving and talented” aid worker who died in Africa four months ago has spoken about the struggle she has faced continuing her good work alone.

The twin sister of a “loving and talented” aid worker who died in Africa four months ago has spoken about the struggle she has faced continuing her good work alone.

Lucy Dickenson, who set up and ran The Safe Foundation, died in a car accident in Zambia while there as part of a Welsh Government-funded project advocating for women who have suffered land rights abuses.

On December 23, members of the Safe Foundation including Lucy’s twin, Hannah Fitt, will host their biggest fundraising event since the tragedy, with a night of live entertainment at Clwb Ifor Bach.

The festive-themed show featuring the Wales football team’s official supporters’ band The Barry Horns, will be followed by a complete charity relaunch in January.

A move which is seen as a new chapter for the charity’s members and volunteers.

Hannah said: “It’s a strange thing because being Lucy’s identical twin we did everything together, we played music together, we talked about everything and we worked together and so this is the first time I haven’t had her by my side.

“I think maybe for a lot of people going back to work is a way of dealing with the loss of a loved one, it’s a way of focussing your energy on something that doesn’t remind you about the grief you’re feeling, but for me it’s the opposite because Lucy was such a huge part of the charity.”

Lucy, 32, from Barry, set up her charity after a traumatic gap year trip to Uganda in 1999, when she was caught up in violent unrest.

The charity now facilitates ten projects in nine different countries including Cambodia, Uganda, Sierra Leone, Ghana, India, Nepal and the UK.

Hannah said: “It’s important for me personally that I continue her good work but in general I’ve had to take a step back because I didn’t want to detract from the main focus of the charity.

“The focus should always be on our beneficiaries and the amazing work of our volunteers, not solely on Lucy.

“But we’re a small team and we have all been through a grieving process, which is why the charity has, I suppose, been in hiatus.

“It’s not like a big charity where a director has died and none of the volunteers knew them.

“Everyone knew Lucy, we’re a big family and it has affected us all.

“Which is why we’ve decided to hold the re-launch in January, when we can start the new year with a fresh new approach.

“But the spirit, focus and motivation of our charity has not and never will change.”

Tickets for the charity event on December 23 can be bought at the door for £5. The event is from 8pm. For further information visit www.clwb.net or contact capitalcityska@googlemail.com

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